New for 2023, the Contour-X is designed for the modern motorcycle rider and aimed at a brand-new generation of riders who desire dynamic race-derived performance and all-day comfort on the road.
Extensive work by the R&D team in the lab, on the road, and out on the racetrack, with the ever-present goal of creating a full-featured, exceptional new Arai helmet, the Contour-X comes with unmatched performance, but with room for a stylish new look that provides a high level of comfort and protection over thousands of miles.
CONTOUR-X FIT
Arai is the only company offering multiple interior-fit shapes to better address the infinite variety of riders’ head shapes and sizes.
No one pays more attention to the subtle variations and infinite possibilities of the human head shape than Arai. Why? Because it’s the secret to getting the best comfort and fit.
So for more than three decades, Arai has pioneered different shapes – and even different proportions within those shapes – in our various helmet models, working to offer a better fit for more people.
The Contour-X has Arai's INTERMEDIATE OVAL (IO) interior fit shape.*
*A Helmet needs to be tried on in order to determine a proper fit.
VAS-V Shield Mechanism
The Contour-X has the new VAS mechanism with a variable axis incorporating a moving pivot point. By combining the pin trajectory, which is based on an imaginary axis, with the two trajectories of the double pivot point slot, the shield opens and closes smoothly even with the much lower shield mount position.
A dual-function lever releases both the side cover/pod and shield pin for quick and simple shield removal. Being able to see the shield mechanism allows for easier shield changes.
3D ARAI LOGO DUCT
Immediately noticeable, the new 3D Arai logo duct (made as thin as possible, just 3.5mm in depth) feeds two central 10mm intake ports. This is a first in an Arai, and entirely due to PB-cLc2’s strength and the shell construction.
It also works very well at low speed and with an upright riding position; at just 31mph it’s channelling an extra 40% airflow, at 74.5mph, 7%. It can also be opened, or closed, quickly with summer or winter gloves, via a short-stroke lever placed at the top; if the rider can’t see the lever and the logo is in its normal place, the duct is open. The Arai logo duct is designed to break away in the event of an impact.
AERODYNAMIC REAR SPOILER WITH ONE PIECE EXHAUST FUNCTION
The one-piece aerodynamic rear exhaust/spoiler, operated by a 3-way switch, is inspired by the DF-X2 of the Corsair-X, but redesigned for touring use – however, it was tested up to 300km/h at Suzuka. It sits a little more forward on the shell and is fed by 3 ports in the shell. As part of Contour-X’s comprehensive ventilation system it efficiently draws air but also smooths airflow over (and from the side) of the helmet, improving stability and reducing buffeting, especially while overtaking at highway speeds. The result is much less rider fatigue. Manufactured as thin and light as possible it’s designed to crush or break away upon impact, therefore having no influence on protective performance.
AIR-SCOOP CHIN VENT
Also new is the 3-position (open, midway, and closed) sliding air-scoop chin vent which flows a larger intake volume of air and has a replaceable filter. The actuating mechanism is thicker and easy to use with gloves.
INTERCOM ACCOMMODATION
Designed to fit and connect a communication system easily on the shell exterior – and without any compromise to the protection offered by the inner EPS liner.
OUTER SHELL: PB-cLc2 (PERIPHERALLY BELTED COMPLEX LAMINATE CONSTRUCTION)
The Contour-X outer shell design outlines a stylish, organic shape and uses PB-cLc2 for lightweight strength. The AR-mat has been substituted with a new material which makes it possible to reduce the weight, while maintaining strength. An extra layer of Super Fiber belting maintains rigidity in a crucial area while offering fl at sides for easy fi tment of an intercom system.
5MM WIDER OPENING
The exclusive shell fl ares 5mm around the opening, making it easier to get the helmet on and off (for newcomers to Arai the initial ‘snugness’ when putting the helmet on or taking it off can be challenging).
NECK ROLL WIRE POCKET
A small stitched opening on the inside of the neck roll allows the intercom system installer to easily tuck away any excess wiring that may be left-over after installing the speakers. For a nice, clean final look and ride.